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High Nitrates & Changing Filters

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I have two tanks with similar results - 1) 55 gal with Emperor 400 filter, set up since May 2) 20 gal long with Aqueon filter(rated for 30 gal) set up for about 2 months

Water tests for both are: Ammonia-0; Nitrite-0 and Nitrate appears to be either 40 or 80 see photo. Is the Nitrate level too high & what causes it? and how do I bring it down? I have been doing about a 25% water change every two weeks. One thing I need to add... I have read repeatedly not to change the filter media, so both filters have the original filters still in place. I have had two fish recently disappear in the 55 gal and found their remains during a water change Nitrate Measurement.jpg

Nitrates are produced by your bacteria as a end product of consuming the ammonia and nitrites

I would not suggest changing your filters as that would not help to lower nitrates. Water changes are the easiest and simplest way to control nitrates. I would suggest increasing your water change schedule and amount. Try something closer to 50% of the water once a week. Adjust the amount of water changed from there to keep the nitrates at or less than 20 ppm.

Cleaning your substrate and rinsing your filter media in old tank water will also help to keep your nitrates down

If you take your time to do the research FIRST, you can successfully set-up and keep ANY type of aquarium with ease."Not using a quarantine tank is like playing Russian roulette. Nobody wins the game, some people just get to play longer than others." - Anthony CalfoFishless CycleCycling with FishMarine Aquarium Info [URL="http://saltwater.aquaticcommunity.com/"]